An ecological measure to screen executive functioning in MS: the Picture Interpretation Test (PIT) 360°

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Cognitive Psychology

Background:

• Executive functions are vital for daily activities and can be impaired early in Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
• Current assessment tools for executive dysfunction in MS lack ecological validity and efficiency.
• There is a need for accessible, real-world methods to evaluate cognitive function in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of the Picture Interpretation Test 360° (PIT 360°) against traditional neuropsychological tests for assessing executive dysfunction in PwMS.
• To evaluate the user experience and engagement with the PIT 360° in both PwMS and Healthy Controls (HC).

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 31 PwMS and 39 HC underwent assessment using standard neuropsychological tests and the PIT 360°.
• User experience and engagement with the PIT 360° were measured through participant feedback.
• Data analysis focused on the ability of each method to differentiate between PwMS and HC groups.

Main Results:

• Traditional neuropsychological tests did not significantly differentiate between PwMS and HC.
• The PIT 360° successfully identified executive dysfunction in PwMS, demonstrating sensitivity to early-stage deficits.
• Participants found the PIT 360° to be an engaging and positive user experience.

Conclusions:

• The PIT 360° is a sensitive, quick, and ecologically valid tool for detecting real-world executive dysfunction in early-stage Multiple Sclerosis.
• This technology-based assessment offers a valuable alternative to traditional methods for evaluating cognitive function in PwMS.
• The engaging nature of the PIT 360° enhances its utility for clinical assessment and research in MS.